
Ward's Lake Shillong
A serene, man-made lake surrounded by vibrant gardens, famous for its November cherry blossoms and picturesque wooden bridge.
_1721393099508_thumb_1200.jpeg&w=3840&q=70)
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cherry blossoms & fewer crowds

Ward's Lake Shillong
Best Time
Cherry blossoms & fewer crowds
_1721393099508_thumb_1200.jpeg&w=3840&q=70)
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, man-made lake surrounded by vibrant gardens, famous for its November cherry blossoms and picturesque wooden bridge.
"Ward's Lake offers a peaceful and refreshing experience that combines nature, heritage, and local culture."

🌸 Catch the Cherry Blossoms
Visit in November for the stunning cherry blossom season, but expect crowds!
🚫 No Plastic Allowed
Ward's Lake is a plastic-free zone. Bring your own reusable water bottles.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
_1721393099508_thumb_1200.jpeg&w=3840&q=70)
The Iconic Wooden Bridge
Center of the lake
A picturesque wooden bridge offering stunning reflections and panoramic views of the lake and gardens.

Vibrant Cherry Blossoms
Throughout the gardens
During November, the lake transforms into a floral wonderland with beautiful pink cherry blossoms.

Pedal Boating on the Lake
Lake surface
Enjoy a leisurely pedal boat ride for a different perspective of the serene surroundings.

Manicured Gardens and Flower Beds
Around the lake
Explore meticulously maintained gardens bursting with colorful seasonal flowers and lush greenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Cherry Blossoms
Eco-Friendly and Camera Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌸 Catch the Cherry Blossoms
Visit in November for the stunning cherry blossom season, but expect crowds!
🚫 No Plastic Allowed
Ward's Lake is a plastic-free zone. Bring your own reusable water bottles.
📸 Camera Fees Apply
Be aware of charges for still and video cameras, especially for professional shoots.
🛶 Pedal Boat Fun
Rent a pedal boat for a relaxing experience on the water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌸 Catch the Cherry Blossoms
Visit in November for the stunning cherry blossom season, but expect crowds!
🚫 No Plastic Allowed
Ward's Lake is a plastic-free zone. Bring your own reusable water bottles.
📸 Camera Fees Apply
Be aware of charges for still and video cameras, especially for professional shoots.
🛶 Pedal Boat Fun
Rent a pedal boat for a relaxing experience on the water.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll want to explore the gardens, so wear comfy shoes!
💰 Carry Cash (or UPI)
While UPI is accepted, carrying some cash can speed up entry.
🍷 Evening Market Delights
Check out the evening market for local wines and snacks, Mon-Sat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ward's Lake is a beautifully maintained, tranquil oasis in Shillong, praised for its scenic gardens, picturesque wooden bridge, and vibrant cherry blossoms in November. Visitors appreciate the affordability, cleanliness, and the peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for leisurely walks and photography. Some note minor inconveniences like parking and camera fees.
"🌟 Ward’s Lake – Shillong’s Little Slice of Peace
Ward’s Lake is a beautiful escape right in the heart of Shillong. Surrounded by manicured gardens, colorful flowers, and shaded walking paths, it’s the kind of place where you instantly slow down. The highlight for me was the charming wooden bridge in the middle—it gives you a picture-perfect view of the lake and the reflections of the trees.
Entry is just ₹20, and you can rent a pedal boat for a relaxed ride on the water. It’s clean, well-maintained, and perfect for families, couples, or even solo travelers looking for a calm stroll. The orchids and seasonal blooms add a splash of color, making it a photographer’s delight.
In short: peaceful, well-kept, and a refreshing green break from the city’s buzz."
Rahool Patel
"Such a Lovely place in the heart of Shillong. The lake is filled with natural beauty, such as beautiful flowers, trees, ducks,geese, pegions.
The place get young and happening during cherry blossoms festival.
But have to park the car bit far from the entry gate. And charges extra money for professional cameras."
Bablee Rai Bhuyan
"Ward’s Lake in Shillong was my second travel destination, and I had a really peaceful and pleasant experience there.
The park is quite large and spread across a big area. It is located right along the main road, so it’s easy to find. There is an entry ticket, and plastic bottles or any kind of plastic items are not allowed inside, which helps keep the place clean and eco-friendly.
Inside the park, there are many trees, a big lake with a lot of fish, and small birds flying around. Visitors often feed the fish, and the overall atmosphere is very calm and close to nature.
The park is well maintained. Cleaning staff are present and regularly keep the area clean. There is also a small section near a pool where you can rent traditional local dresses and take photos, which is a fun experience. A small café inside the park offers light snacks and drinks, so you can sit and relax for a while.
This place is good for walking, relaxing, spending time in nature, and clicking photos. I would definitely recommend visiting it if you're in Shillong."
Subhashree Barad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ward's Lake is conveniently located in the heart of Shillong, making it easily accessible by local taxis or auto-rickshaws. It's situated along the main road, so finding it is straightforward.
Parking can be a bit challenging, and you might need to park your car a short distance from the entry gate.
For exploring Shillong and visiting spots like Ward's Lake, hiring a local taxi for the day or using ride-sharing apps is recommended. Auto-rickshaws are also a good option for shorter distances.
If you are staying in the central part of Shillong, walking to Ward's Lake is a pleasant option, allowing you to soak in the city's atmosphere.
Ward's Lake is a prominent landmark, and most local drivers will know the way. You can simply ask for 'Ward's Lake' or 'Nan Polok' (its older name).
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for adults is ₹20, for children (6-12 years) is ₹10, and for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (with ID) it's ₹10. Foreign tourists' children (below 12) pay ₹20.
Yes, there are charges for cameras. A still camera costs ₹0.50, a video camera costs ₹100 per unit, and a DSLR/Digital camera costs ₹20. Wedding and film shoots have higher fees.
Ward's Lake is open from morning until evening. Early mornings are ideal for peaceful walks. It is closed on Tuesdays for maintenance, especially for morning joggers.
Currently, tickets are primarily purchased at the on-site counter. It's advisable to carry cash or check for UPI payment options available at the ticket booth.
There is a concessionary ticket price for persons with disabilities with a valid ID, suggesting some level of accessibility, though specific ramp or lift information is not detailed.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy leisurely walks through the gardens, take photos, rent pedal boats for a ride on the lake, and visit the evening market for local wines and snacks.
Absolutely! Ward's Lake is a photographer's delight with its colorful flowers, the picturesque wooden bridge, and the serene lake reflections. The cherry blossom season is particularly popular for photos.
While visitors often feed the fish, it's best to check for any specific regulations regarding feeding the wildlife to ensure their well-being and the cleanliness of the park.
Yes, there is a small café inside the park offering light snacks and drinks. Restroom facilities are also available to maintain visitor comfort.
Early mornings are ideal for a peaceful stroll and photography before the crowds arrive. Late afternoons also offer a serene ambiance with beautiful lighting.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small café within Ward's Lake that serves light snacks and drinks, perfect for a brief respite during your visit.
The Ward's Lake Evening Market, open Monday to Saturday from 5 pm to 9 pm, is a great place to sample local wines and other local flavors.
While outside food might not be explicitly prohibited, the emphasis on keeping the area clean and plastic-free suggests bringing minimal food items and disposing of any waste responsibly.
Being in the heart of Shillong, there are numerous restaurants and eateries in the vicinity of Ward's Lake offering a variety of cuisines.
While there isn't a designated picnic area, you can find quiet spots to sit and enjoy snacks. However, remember to clean up thoroughly afterward.
📸 📸 Photography
The wooden bridge, the colorful flower beds, the lake reflections, and the cherry blossoms (in season) are prime photography spots.
Yes, there are charges for video cameras and professional shoots. A DSLR/Digital camera costs ₹20, and wedding/film shoots have higher fees.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography. The cherry blossom season in November is particularly spectacular.
There is no specific mention of drone usage, but generally, drone photography might require special permissions and could be restricted in public parks. It's best to inquire locally.
Ward's Lake is ideal for landscape, nature, portrait, and romantic couple photography, especially during the cherry blossom season.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will enjoy watching the ducks and fish in the lake, and the option of pedal boating adds an element of fun. The presence of a small café also means you can easily grab snacks and drinks. Remember to enforce the plastic-free rule to keep the park clean for everyone.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While the natural beauty is a huge draw, be mindful of the camera fees, particularly for professional equipment or shoots. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best natural light for capturing stunning images. The variety of flora and fauna also makes it ideal for nature photography.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
The serene atmosphere, the gentle sounds of nature, and the beautiful scenery make it an ideal spot to relax, read a book, or simply sit and enjoy the calm. The affordable entry fee and the availability of a small café add to the convenience for solo visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Cherry Blossoms
While the blossoms are a major draw, they also bring significant crowds. Travelers looking to experience this natural beauty are advised to plan their visit for weekdays to avoid the peak weekend rush. The vibrant colors make it an exceptional time for photography, with many visitors capturing stunning shots of the blossoms against the backdrop of the lake and gardens.
A Glimpse into History and Design
The lake is a testament to Shillong's colonial-era heritage, reflecting a blend of British architectural and landscaping influences. It remains one of the city's most cherished landmarks, offering a serene escape that has been enjoyed by locals and visitors for over a century. The man-made nature of the lake, surrounded by carefully cultivated botanical gardens, highlights the thoughtful design of its creators.
Boating and Evening Market Experiences
Adding to the lake's allure is the Ward's Lake Evening Market, which operates from Monday to Saturday, 5 pm to 9 pm. This market is a fantastic opportunity to sample local wines crafted by passionate winemakers. It's a vibrant spot to experience local flavors and support local artisans.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit